“Yuh Cyaan Siddung Pon Cow Back An’ Call It Horse”

Truth Can’t Be Faked

In classic Jamaican fashion, the proverb “Yuh cyaan siddung pon cow back an’ call it horse” delivers its truth with earthy humor and sharp clarity. No matter what you call it, a cow is not a horse, and sitting on it doesn’t change its identity. This saying reminds us that labels don’t change reality. Appearances and aspirations are one thing—authenticity is another.

In this post, we’ll explore the deeper meaning behind this proverb, how it applies in real life, and how you can celebrate its unapologetic honesty through merchandise and affiliate product ideas.

Meaning and Cultural Interpretation

Translated to standard English, this proverb says:
“You can’t sit on a cow and call it a horse.”

It points to the futility of pretending to be something you’re not, or trying to rename reality to suit your ego or social image. Whether it’s about false credentials, living above your means, or putting on airs, the message is clear: You can’t fake authenticity.

In Jamaican culture, where plain talk is valued and “keeping it real” is a virtue, this proverb is often said with side-eye or sarcasm when someone is pretending to be more important or refined than they are.

“Look pon him… siddung pon cow back, but waan yuh fi call it horse!”
Translation: He’s pretending to be what he clearly isn’t.

Relevance in Everyday Life

1. In Personal Identity:
People sometimes craft images of themselves—online or in real life—that don’t reflect who they truly are. They dress the part, talk the part, but lack the foundation. This proverb reminds us: Be real. Be grounded.

2. In Business and Branding:
A company can claim to offer luxury service, but if the customer experience doesn’t match, people will see through it. A flashy brand on top of sloppy operations is just a cow in horse’s clothing.

3. In Education or Expertise:
Someone may throw around titles, degrees, or buzzwords, but if their behavior and knowledge don’t align, they’re sitting on a cow. Authenticity and substance always win.

4. In Politics and Leadership:
When leaders try to rebrand failure as success, or corruption as strength, this proverb serves as a cutting critique. You can say whatever you want—but truth is what it is.

Moral and Social Lessons

• Authenticity beats appearance.
• Labels don’t create substance.
• You can’t elevate your status by pretending.
• Respect comes from being, not from branding.

This proverb’s power is in how simply and humorously it cuts through posturing, pretense, and delusion. It’s a dose of honesty that’s needed across generations.

Closing Reflection

“Yuh cyaan siddung pon cow back an’ call it horse” is a bold call to truth in a world full of filters and falsehoods. It challenges us to let go of the image game and root ourselves in the richness of realness. In Jamaica and across the globe, we need more of that—more integrity, less performance.

So whether you’re branding your business, building your relationship, or just showing up in the world—don’t fake the horse when you’re on a cow. Own your journey. Live your truth.

Have you ever tried to be something you’re not or met someone who did? What helped you (or them) come back to authenticity?